Who is the biggest X-Factor for the Colts?
The Indianapolis Colts are preparing for a season where they have a lot of expectations as a team. Which player will emerge as Indy’s X-Factor?
With one preseason game down, the regular season is almost here for the Indianapolis Colts and the rest of the NFL. After a promising, but ultimately disappointing, season last year, the Colts are preparing to dominate the 2022 season. They ended last year as one of the most talented teams in the league and have added even more talent.
Just to recap, Indianapolis has added Matt Ryan, Yannick Ngakoue, Stephon Gilmore, and many more talented veterans and rookies. Those are all in addition to proven stars like Shaquille Leonard and Jonathan Taylor, and the rest of Indy’s league-high Pro Bowlers from last season.
With that much talent, it’s clear why many are picking the Colts to win the AFC South and to make noise in the playoffs. Also, with that many stars, several players could step up to help consistently lead Indy to victories, but which player will be the X-Factor? Which player’s performance will be so important that it could impact the record for better or worse?
Kristopher Knox from Bleacher Report recently answered this question. Knox named the biggest X-Factor for each NFL team, and for the Colts, Matt Ryan was the name that Knox settled on.
Matt Ryan named the biggest X-Factor for Colts
Knox argued that Ryan isn’t just one of the biggest X-Factors for Indianapolis, but in the entire league. Highlighting how Ryan now will benefit from the competent roster in Indy that he didn’t have in his final Atlanta Falcons years, Knox believes this could be a great year for Ryan and the Colts.
However, considering Ryan’s age, Knox writes, “The dreaded cliff could come at any time, though, making Ryan one of the most intriguing offseason acquisitions to follow in 2022.” So Ryan will either deliver for the Colts and they will be a contender or he will disappoint and so will Indianapolis for another season.
Based on all reports, Ryan will deliver. He has already been a breath of fresh air for Indianapolis with his leadership and his playing ability. In reality, his production will likely depend on his supporting cast. The Colts must do a good job of protecting him and the receivers must continue to improve. If everyone does their part, it’s safe to assume that Ryan will do his.
